WATERVILLE – George J. Vandemark, 85, passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 19, 2024, with his loving wife and daughter by his side.

He was born on August 16, 1938 in Plainfield, NJ. to parents George and Helen Vandemark. After graduating high school in 1956, George proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. He would remind anyone that “once a Marine always a Marine”.George studied education at Rutgers University completing his Master’s degree and advanced certificates. He was a pioneer in public education receiving numerous awards over his 37 years of service. George was the founder of Project Stride in New Jersey, one of the first alternative educational programs in the nation. In 1979 George and Joan moved their family to Maine where they bought Snowbird Lodge and Camp Bendito in Harrison, Maine. After this successful adventure, George returned to teaching, his true love. His genuine empathy and kindness influenced the lives of his students which was reflected in their frequent visits to his home. George concluded his career creating the alternative program at Lawrence High School in Fairfield, Maine.

In 1960 George married his soulmate and love of his life Joan, whom he lovingly referred to as his “bride”. They had been friends since the fourth grade and would go on to enjoy 64 years of marriage. George was convinced that with Joan by his side, anything was possible. He was devoted to his family and was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend.

George had a love for the outdoors, traveling, celebrating holidays and reading good books. He and Joan enjoyed paddling and exploring quiet waters, or a fall picnic on the coast of Maine. George lived a big life but enjoyed the small things such as a glass of red wine, smoking his pipe, talking to the neighbors, walks in the park and a cup of coffee “ al fresco” .

He is survived by his wife, Joan Vandemark; his son George and his wife Katie, his son MIchael and his wife Anne Hermans; his daughter Erin Brown and her husband Eric; his grandchildren, Max and Molly Brown, and Elsa and Neil Vandemark: his sisters-in-law, Tina Lee, Gail Francesco and her husband Greg and brother-in- law Steve Kozik. He was predeceased by his parents, George and Helen Vandemark; his four sisters, Kay, Sookie, Valerie, Lisa and his brother, Dick.

He will be missed by one and all. Special thanks to Dr. Roland Knausenberger, his office staff and the Northern Light Hospice team.

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